Algonquin Books Blog

What does Hillary Jordan’s debut novel, Mudbound, have in common with the likes of Nickel & Dimed, Freakonomics, The Glass Castle, and Three Cups of Tea? The answer: it’s the 2010 selection for Appalachian State University’s Summer Reading Program. Like the aforementioned titles, Mudbound was assigned as summer reading for Appalachian’s 3,500 incoming freshman.

Hillary Jordan at the podium on September 16th

The highlight of the program was Jordan’s recent visit to the University, where, adorned in full regalia, she delivered an inspiring speech to the freshman class and the entire school faculty. With a full-brass ensemble, a jumbotron, and an audience of 4,000+ people staring back at her, Hillary was in full-command. Heck, it was like watching Bono, Springsteen, or Lady Gaga, and the response she received was an enthusiastic standing ovation.

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For a day and a half, Hillary went from one campus event to another: readings, interviews, dinners, question and answer sessions, and classroom visits. It was absolutely inspiring to watch an entire college community embrace a novel and an author with such enthusiasm.

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Appalachian was nice enough to provide us with some wickedly cool Mudbound T-shirts. The pick-up truck graphic coupled with the quote, “Everything’s fine. I just gave Ronsel here a lift from town,” makes it a must-have. Want one?

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—Craig Popelars, Marketing Director

.GET ONE! COMMENT HERE OR ON OUR FACEBOOK ACCOUNT TO ENTER THE DRAWING FOR A MUDBOUND T-SHIRT! Many will comment, four will win.

Cash For Gold Price Per Gram says...

Hi, Craig, it’s Hillary’s mother, Anita Jordan. I realize I’m a shameless woman, but I’d dearly love to win a T-shirt or purchase one if that’s possible. I’m getting ready to teach Mudbound to my 115 Advanced Placement English seniors in January, and I’d love nothing more than to wear the T-shirt on the first day of teaching Mudbound. Let me know how I could purchase some. Thanks so much,
Anita Jordan

November 1, 201011:20 am

Doni Molony says...

Loved the book. Would love to wear the shirt. Am feeling lucky. Throw my name into the hat!